Contemporary music has been popular due to its complex time signatures and other instruments. It has a broad category of genres, each with unique traits that make it different. But what is contemporary music? What are some of its famous genres? Are there popular artists who use this kind of music?
Contemporary music was said to have started in the 20th century. Some of its characteristics are complex time signatures (5/4, etc.). The instruments used for this type of music are harmonic and orchestral, electronic, and some pitched percussion. But not all include those instruments since some include major jazz keys (most common are F, Bb, Eb, and Ab).
Some famous contemporary music genres are jazz, rock, hip-hop, rap, funk, metal, R&B (Rhythm and Blues), and classical.
Jazz uses harmonic patterns, rhythms (but not identical), and harmony. It is said to be rooted in European harmony and African rhythmic rituals.
Rock music is usually 4/4 time signature and usually played by drums, electric guitar, bass guitars, and at least one singer. The lyrics on rock have different topics, but the most common ones are about love, society, and politics.
Hip-hop and rap sometimes accompany each other with hard rhythmic beats, almost 4/4). Hip-hop was said to have originated back in the 1970s in New York. Rap music is sometimes played in bands and has drum beats and synthesizers.
Funk has a complex time signature in downbeats (the first beat of a measure of music), which is the 16th note. It is also accompanied by bass and guitar.
Metal includes heavy bass, loud distorted electric guitars, and drums. The word “Metal” is believed to have come from the hippie movement “heavy,” which meant deep or serious.
R&B stands for Rhythm and Blues as it combines pop, soul, funk, hip hop, and electronic music.
It also has a smooth vocal arrangement (how you sing your song).
Classical, contemporary music differs from the other famous genres since it doesn’t include electronic instruments and pitched percussion but has harmonic and orchestral instruments.
Famous artists who use this kind of music include Outkast, Kanye West, and Eminem since they combine rap and other singing styles. Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga are other famous artists.
Contemporary music is growing even more famous as time goes on. Contemporary music is loved by many due to its uniqueness and different genres, while some are even inspired to make one of their own. It just goes to show that there is no limit to music.